Learning Objective #1: Identify a method of measuring health literacy in adult populations

Learning Objective #2: Describe nursing implications related to health literacy needs

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Health Literacy of Community Dwelling Adults Purpose: The purpose of this study is to describe health literacy levels in community dwelling, adults residing in Monroe County. Health literacy skills are needed by consumers of health care in order to be able to read and understand directions provided by primary care providers, discuss health needs with primary care providers, and to participate effectively in self-management of chronic health problems, such as diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Research has shown that older adults, 65 years and older, have decreased health literacy skills than the general population. The results of this project provide an objective description of the overall health literacy status. These findings will then direct targeted interventions that will be implemented at a later time.

Method: The Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine (REALM) was administered to 100 community dwelling adults. The REALM is a screening tool that assesses an adult's ability to read medical words and lay terms for body parts and illnesses. This tool estimates a person's literacy level. Grade equivalent is based on the raw scores obtained on the REALM. Excellent reliability and validity of the REALM has been reported in the literature.

Results: A convenience sample of 100 community dwelling adults was obtained. The average respondent was 65.6 years old (SD = .93). All but three respondents had a high school education or higher. Raw scores obtained on the REALM ranged between 32 (4th – 6th grade reading level) to 66 (high school level), with a mean of 62.5 (high school level) and SD=.64.

Conclusions and Implications: The reading level of this group was determined to be at the high school level and will be able to read most patient education materials